Backyard barbecues, parties and other gatherings are among the highlights of summer. It’s difficult to pack so much fun into the daylight hours, however, so many get-togethers extend well into the night. While that’s great for setting the ambience, the darkness can present a new challenge for the party host. Here are some tips to help you organize a safe event when entertaining outdoors at night.

Deck Safety

Homeowners should inspect decks at least once a year to check for wood rot, loose floorboards, rusted fasteners and other conditions. The deck check also should confirm that railings are secure and that the ledger board is safely connected to the home or adjoining structure. Failure to perform an inspection could result in a deck collapse. It’s far too common a problem, as one study has found deck collapse events are increasing at an alarming rate. A collapse is not only an expensive repair for homeowners, but also can result in serious injury or death.

Bright Lights

Paper lanterns, tiki torches and twinkle lights are popular picks for illuminating an outdoor event, but they don’t provide adequate lighting to ensure guest safety. It’s important to have driveways, walkways and restrooms bathed in light, and decorative fixtures typically don’t offer enough coverage. Flood lights and other outdoor lighting are preferred for keeping large areas well lit and can also be attractive additions to an outdoor space. Search for exterior lighting Clearwater or in your area to find the right solution for your home.

Glow Strips

If obstacles like large rocks and tree stumps are in high-traffic areas, mark them with glow-in-the-dark tape. These reflective strips should also be affixed to steps and other inclined surfaces to prevent unnecessary falls and trips. Falling is a major problem for individuals over the age of 65, with serious injury occurring in approximately 20% of falls.

Throwing a great party starts with having a safe space for friends and family to gather. Keep these tips in mind so the fun doesn’t have to stop when the sun goes down.